'Relegation impossible': Pepe Mel plans survival route for West Brom

The Spaniard claimed it is "impossible" for the Baggies to be relegated as they geared up for tomorrow's vital Hawthorns showdown with Fulham and their new boss Felix Magath.

The German has promised to save the Cottagers and targeted six wins from their final 12 games, while Mel has echoed Albion captain Chris Brunt's call for at least four victories.

"I don't think West Brom will be relegated – never," said a bullish Mel. "It's not possible. I am sure. West Brom, next season, will be playing in the Premier League. But ,for me, the more important thing is that the players think that too. I am the coach, I don't play. It's about the players.

"I agree with Chris Brunt; we need to win four or five matches. The next match is a big match for us."

But it is a massive clash on both sides of the fence with Magath declaring, at his unveiling as Rene Meulensteen's successor: "West Bromwich is probably the most important game in this club's history."

The Baggies returned from Spain late on Tuesday – they had been due to fly on Wednesday – after Mel excused them from the final planned training session and the players requested an extra night at home. The head coach claimed the trip helped him lay the ground rules for the rest of the season on and off the training field.

He said: "The players and staff worked together every day and we have new rules for breakfast, new rules for working on the pitch, new rules for travel. This is normal.

"West Brom for me is a family. It's a very good team and is together with a great atmosphere for work.

"The focus is the same for players, fans, technical staff and for me."

Mel will be without Nicolas Anelka (shin) and Claudio Yacob (hamstring) tomorrow, while Stephane Sessegnon (groin) is unlikely to start. Jonas Olsson and Billy Jones are available after hamstring injuries.